Mexico has recorded its first case of human infection with avian influenza type A (H5N2) virus with a fatal outcome. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported.

According to it, the virus was detected in a 59-year-old resident of the state of Mexico.

«This is the first laboratory-confirmed human case of infection with an influenza A(H5N2) virus reported globally and the first avian H5 virus infection in a person reported in Mexico. The source of exposure to the virus in this case is currently unknown,» the statement says.

On April 17, the man reportedly developed fever, shortness of breath, diarrhoea, nausea and general malaise. On April 24, he sought medical attention, was hospitalized and died the same day due to complications of his condition. On May 22, sequencing of the sample confirmed the influenza subtype was A(H5N2). The man had no history of exposure to poultry or other animals. WHO assesses the current risk to the general population from this virus as low.

The organization reminds that animal influenza viruses normally circulate in animals but can also infect humans. Infections in humans have primarily been acquired through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. Depending on the original host, influenza A viruses can be classified as avian influenza, swine influenza, or other types of animal influenza viruses.

Avian influenza virus infections in humans may cause mild to severe upper respiratory tract infections and can be fatal.